Investigating how depression and chronic pain affect Alzheimer's disease risk
Project 2: Depression and chronic pain: Modifiable targets for prevention of AD/ADRD
This study is looking at how untreated depression and chronic pain might affect memory and thinking skills, especially in older adults and those from underserved communities, to help find better ways to prevent Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10934715 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between depression, chronic pain, and the risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease and related disorders (AD/ADRD). It aims to evaluate how untreated depression and chronic pain may contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of AD/ADRD, particularly in older adults and marginalized populations. The study will utilize large electronic health record databases and national cohorts to analyze the effects of depression and chronic pain on cognitive health over time. By comparing different populations and treatment approaches, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for prevention and intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing depression and/or chronic pain, particularly those from marginalized communities.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have depression or chronic pain, or who are younger than 21 years old, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease by addressing modifiable risk factors like depression and chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing depression can significantly impact cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilsanz, Paola — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Gilsanz, Paola
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.